Red flags
- Staff repeatedly ask the same question when someone does not answer quickly.
- Visual supports exist but are rarely used.
- Staff say someone “doesn't communicate”.
- Staff speak mainly to another staff member rather than the person.
- People are offered choices they cannot understand.
- Communication plans are out of date.
- Staff use long or complicated language despite recommendations for simple language.
- Someone's behaviour is described as “attention seeking” without exploring communication.
- Staff guess what someone wants without checking.
- Only one staff member knows how to use the person's communication system.